Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has appealed to protesters with the hashtag #EndBadGovernance Protest#, to grant easy passage for doctors and medical workers to enable them to provide essential services to save the lives of those who might need them while the protest lasted.
The medical body in a statement endorsed by the Deputy Chairman, Benson Okwara in Benin City, on Thursday, however, empathised with the protesters and Nigerians over their grievances.
The body also called on the Federal Government to urgently harken to the cry of the citizens and engage in meaningful dialogue with the aim of providing solutions to the nation’s problems.
“We in Edo NMA understand the frustrations and grievances that have led to this movement, and we empathize with the protesters’ demands for change for the better. We are not oblivious of the difficulties and hardship that bedevil our current realities today. They are real and directly affect all social classes.
“However, as we navigate this critical moment in our nation’s history, it is important we also prioritize the well-being and safety of our citizens.
“In light of this, we urge the protesters to grant doctors and medical personnel a free pass to attend to emergencies and provide critical care, as our relatives, friends, and fellow citizens with critical medical conditions should have and be given a chance to live.
“Hospitals and healthcare facilities should therefore remain accessible, and medical professionals should be allowed to perform their duties without hindrance, at all times.
“We wish to emphasize that doing otherwise will limit the ability of those in need of medical care to access such care. The consequences of this is better imagined. So, as we advance our right to decent living, let us work together to protect the vulnerable among us.
“We also urge the government to urgently engage in meaningful dialogue with Nigerians and address the demands of the movement.
“Together, we can create a better future for Nigeria, where the rights of all citizens are respected, and our collective well-being is prioritised,” the Edo NMA emphasised.